Stearns County Officially Accepts Lenzmeier’s Retirement

(KNSI) — The Stearns County Administrator’s Office has formally accepted Commissioner Leigh Lenzmeier’s retirement, effective immediately.

Lenzmeier wrote a letter on Wednesday announcing he was stepping away following a closed hearing regarding his wife Alice Lenzmeier’s guardianship status. She had been trying to get him off the Board, citing his rapid acceleration of cognitive decline.

“Commissioner Lenzmeier has been a dedicated public servant whose years of leadership have helped shape our county in countless positive ways,” said Mike Williams, Stearns County Administrator. “While this decision comes under difficult circumstances, and his decision to step away was not easy, it reflects his integrity and commitment to putting our community first. We thank him for his service.”

A special Board Meeting originally scheduled for Monday has been canceled in light of Lenzmeier’s retirement. The topic will instead be addressed at the next regularly scheduled Stearns County Board Meeting on Tuesday, May 6th.

Lenzmeier is the second-longest-serving county commissioner in Minnesota history and the longest-serving commissioner in Stearns County. A press release formally announcing his retirement called the move “a testament to both his commitment to public service and the trust of his constituents.”

“Transitions like this are never easy, but they are part of public service. Our focus now is on ensuring a smooth path forward and continuing the important work of serving our residents,” said Williams.

Commissioner Lenzmeier was in the middle of his current four-year term, which was set to end in December 2026. The Board will likely hold a special election this November to fill the vacant seat.

___